27 Boarding Day Tips First Time Cruisers Need to Know (2024)

[@LifeWellCruised]

Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limted time). Details here: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/

[@cindyjackson4964]

Use your ultimate cruise planner for every cruise since I got it a couple years ago. Love it! Really helps with the organization!!

[@pgijoy5037]

Love the cruise planner. It helps before, during and aftervthe trip. Also hotel cost. We booked a room in Collinsville Ill. The room was 75.00. Taxes were over 100$$. Ugh

[@lisawright-minter9247]

Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful information. I just purchased the planner.

[@user-lj1zs3wl5l]

QUICK QUESTION: Can you tell me how many ladies wore long evening gowns in Formal Nights? The kind that may have a dash of sequins or an overlay of chiffon? I really need to know. We will be on the Harmony in a few months. Thanks. 😊

[@rmorris1228]

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[@sophiepatenaude8604]

One piece of advice i would give beside all the tips you gave is : patience, patience and patience! Thousands of cruisers want to get on the ship and start their vacation like you. NO NEED to get upset, impatient or rude. Relax and enjoy!

[@rosebonaduce9738]

so agree with this. We encountered a group on our very first cruise, that were very rude, yelling at the Cruise Personnell and just being horrible. I told my husband there is never a reason to be so horrible to the people that are actually trying to help you.

[@clarissar1528]

The best tip!!

[@davidkolarik-yj8up]

Print extra luggage tags. Put one in each checked bag and carry on bag.

[@k.s.brixey4469]

I put a tag on all our checked and carry on ... inside purses too... justbin case in all the excitement you walk off without it.

[@vm3016]

Oh my gosh, thank you so much for this video. I am going on my first “girls trip” cruise at age 76. Watching this has allowed me to get excited instead of anxious.

[@sunseekermama]

We have started going to the nearest bar once on the ship,order a (made it on the ship) drink and watch the muster drill on our phone's while relaxing with our drink. Then we go straight to check in at our muster station. Business before pleasure! Then we know we can completely relax for our vacation.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Haha love that line

[@lightwarrior432]

Great Tip 😊👍🏽 Thank you!

[@thatswhatisaidCA]

OH NO! We found out 4 years ago on our first ever cruise that our "drinks package" we paid for did NOT cover drinks if you hadn't left the port yet, so we unexpectedly got charged extra for them.

[@sunseekermama]

@@thatswhatisaidCA we just use our obc's

[@scotthanlon8412]

@@thatswhatisaidCA Yeah unfortunately that is usually due to local laws and has nothing to do with the cruise line. I know that is the reason here in Texas

[@janetttyminski7295]

Always put sunblock on prior to boarding. Nothing is worse than burning on your first day.

[@barbaralazier8352]

Air tags are fabulous. Every time you give us these tips I learn something new ❤. My biggest tip- your room steward is your best friend. Treat him/ her as you would like to be treated and you will find your cruise is going to be fabulous.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yes!! Such good advice. I may share that one 👏😂

[@cywoods60]

TFS 🔥💯

[@pcasey23]

Please elaborate - how much daily in 2024? And at what point in the day? What if we purchased an upgrade that includes gratuities?

[@lcflngn]

⁠​⁠@@pcasey23Are you asking about tipping? I have asked this in different ways on various YT channels many times (never cruised before) & rec’d no clear answer. I’ve learned from this that basically there is no good answer. I imagine we will overtip the awesome in person folks, as well as “included” tip somehow ahead of time everyone including the invisible folks. One way or another, we will tip well (both of us having lived on tips for years.) There we are.

[@oldergent5266]

@@lcflngn I always purchase a package that includes gratuities. At the end of the cruise, there will usually be an envelope left for an additional tip, tip according to your satisfaction of your room steward. For "as expected" service, I leave $20. Subpar = $0. Above and beyond = $30, 40, 50, depending. Do NOT deduct for anything that is beyond the steward's control, such as water temp, fuzzy TV reception, etc. Daily tipping is not necessary, but like all tipping situations, it's your choice.

[@adoptsalot]

Wear comfy shoes. You will spend a lot of time on your feet and walk a lot more than you expect on day one. I like to bring a small gift for my cabin steward with a small card. Something that speaks to where I am from, to kind of introduce myself. So pecan pralines or a jar of peach jam, state tourist attraction playing cards... HOPE that your room is ready early and that your luggage arrives at a favorable hour, but be prepared for Plan B. Always have a Plan B.

[@jacquelineoltman3854]

I saw where someone also brings post cards from where they’re from instead of thank you cards etc 💙💙

[@johnflack4241]

On our cruise last March, my suitcase arrived at about 4 pm, but by 5, there was no sign of my wife's, nor a message about it being held up. I left to go to Guest services to check, and happened to see it down the hall, delivered to the wrong cabin. Two takeaways - her suitcase has a fairly distinctive design, which made it easy for me to see and identify it. If your bag looks like other bags, tie a ribbon or something else to make it easy to identify. I've heard this this is also a good idea for airport baggage claim. Second, if you notice that bags have started to arrive and yours hasn't, check down the hall, it may be nearby.

[@AW-xz2li]

We went searching after we saw many were delivered to other cabins & found 2 of ours on a whole other floors with tags clearly visible! Thanks RC! LOL😂

[@bugwar5545]

Yep! Happened to me also. I decorated my bag and saw it parked with others just down the hall. Interesting, since I had an Owners suite, I figured the staff would pay more attention.

[@ShenansWithSusan]

I think the ribbon is a good idea for cruises. However, I heard recently that ribbons at airports give the luggage the wrong kind of attention now.

[@Snoopy-qe7kt]

My bag is bright orange. Actually dirty bright orange after so many trips. I can spot it in the next town! I also figure it has a lower chance of getting stolen or taken by mistake because it’s so noticeable.

[@michellerhefty]

​@ShenansWithSusan what kind of attention? I was thinking about adding one the next time I travel.

[@sewistnotsewer]

I unpack immediately, and hide my suitcases under the bed so I don't have to think about going home.

[@reppin864]

That's clever!!

[@MistyLoveMistral]

😂

[@treeofwisdomoracle7863]

😂😂

[@Victoria-qk3mu]

Yeah great tip😂❤

[@Caligirl90110]

😂😂😂, I really don’t wanna think about going home so I’m gonna copy you and hide my suitcase too lol

[@betsy6046]

We always like to get on as early as possible and eat somewhere NOT the buffet. Then we like to walk the whole ship top to bottom so we know where most things are before it gets really crowded. We usually cruise small to mid size ships so this is easier than on the giant ships. We also sign up for spa raffles and the like while wandering. Then we collapse with a drink 🍷

[@annemarieburns6601]

Thanks for the tip , first time cruiser here, can I ask why not the buffet?

[@betsy6046]

@@annemarieburns6601 it's generally the most crowded place to eat so we go somewhere calmer like the m ain dining room or burger place.

[@gparsons320]

@@betsy6046 Thanks for the explanation! I was wondering why not the buffet also!

[@gparsons320]

So, how early can you get to the dock and try to get on the ship? We're cruising to Alaska on Holland America in a couple weeks, and our boarding pass says boarding begins at 12 p.m., a chat agent told me check in begins at 11 a.m. I don't want to arrive at the same time everyone else does. Will they let us on if we arrive early?

[@Blackphoenix422]

​@@gparsons320 there are several boarding times however unless you pay for priority check in you will wait in a line regardless.

[@allyb56]

Stop 1: Make dinner reservations. Stop 2: Muster station check-in. Stop 3: Sit down dining room lunch with a cocktail.😊

[@yeeaahhzz]

Can you make reservations before getting your cruise card?

[@allyb56]

@yeeaahhzz You make your dinner reservations online after you book your cruise. If the time you want isn't available, as soon as you board the ship, go to where the restaurants reservations are being taken collectively, usually one of the restaurants, & see if they have the time you want available.

[@scottdobson1276]

One key with luggage tags, NEVER put them on before you fly. I place them in a Pocket on my luggage, and put them on the bags before we go to the terminal.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good tip

[@daughtersofjesususa6228]

As a travel agent, I always tell my clients to unpack IMMEDIATELY, take a picture/video of your cabin when you first go in, and track your cruise account daily on the app. I also recommend avoiding the buffet on the first day if at all possible. Thanks for another great video!

[@keyladavid8299]

Why you don't recommend to eat at the buffet?

[@daughtersofjesususa6228]

@@keyladavid8299 Only because it is often very crowded, and that can be a bit overwhelming for my first-time cruisers. That’s it🙂.

[@keyladavid8299]

Thanks 😊

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good advice. Haha seems we have similar embarkation day routines

[@abbiem2314]

I'll follow yr step thanks as a first timer cruiser . Too excited ❤

[@richardgotshall2703]

For luggage tags, we also put our cabin number on a piece of masking tape and attach it to the bag front (not the handle) just in case the tag gets torn off - which has happened to us twice.

[@crazy4dariver]

Biggest suggestion I can provide, be on time and dont stress over having to wait. Lady on my last one was entitled or so she thought. Back of the line to the front ahead of me. I pointed out where the line starts. I said outloud "This will be the worst cruise of your life with that attitude." They pretty much made it so. She insulted EVERYONE

[@wendysoulliere1305]

Some people never learn

[@firecat-dy9go]

I would have laughed in her face and said, “Challenge accepted!”

[@kellyannhahn4201]

How rude I would of Been nicer if I met you I wouldn’t insult you I would of been nice

[@327Erich]

The best change to come about since Covid is the virtual muster drill. We generally watch it in our hotel room before even getting to the terminal. Once onboard, we head to our muster station to check in, and head to the nearest bar for a glass of Prosecco to toast having made it! If you're lucky enough to get the earliest boarding time (we shoot for it every cruise), we've found that our luggage is often in the hall by the time the rooms are ready. If that's the case, we unpack right away and keep the door ajar so our cabin attendant knows we're there. We meet him/her and request our paper daily Cruise Compass. It feels great to get all the "housekeeping" (no pun intended) out of the way so the real party can begin!

[@sonyaelliott5070]

Thank for information. What ship where you on

[@327Erich]

​@sonyaelliott5070 We've been on several ships, mostly Royal Caribbean, but also Virgin Voyages, which has a different boarding procedure.

[@kathleenjimenez8968]

Regarding phones in airplane mode, don’t forget to put iPad and smartwatches also in airplane mode.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing

[@sydwee915]

why do you have to put them in airplane mode. just curious

[@cynthiareeves5611]

​@@sydwee915so you don't end up with roaming charges after your trip is done.

[@mbh3004]

@@cynthiareeves5611makes sense. thanks for the insight!

[@JeanneSwank]

One thing I have found on embarkation day on eating is that people usually come hungry they don’t eat because they know that there is free food on the ship that the bigger the ship the bigger the lines are in the buffet so what I usually do and I’m usually with my sisters one of them who is a travel agent and we go out and go into the promenade or whatever and just go to the little café that are free food also And sit and relax and watch the people go by and that way we don’t have to hit the humongous crowds that are in the buffet so if it’s a smaller ship, the buffets are less crowded but if it’s a bigger ship, especially with children, the buffets are going to be super crowded, especially as it gets towards noon

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good idea

[@dalecalabrese3352]

I always avoid the buffet on embarkation day, lots of times the main dining room is wide open.

[@Reneemfenn]

Yikes. Are they hangry not eatin’!?

[@rzaw30]

We Used hooked magnets to hang our lanyards on, and put them by the door so we would not forget them.

[@jasonlott4885]

For solo cruiser, check to see if there is solo's meet and greet the first day. Great way to meet your fellow solo cruisers.

[@wpatrickw2012]

Arriving the day before is the best piece of advice. It was so nice to have an entire afternoon and evening to go to a grocery store and pick up sunscreen and other things that could not be brought easily onto a plane. This included a couple of cases of caffeine free Diet Coke, which the ship did not carry. I had checked ahead of time and made sure that it was okay to bring soda onboard. I slapped a luggage tag on each case and they were delivered with the rest of our luggage.

[@lukes5533]

Always unpack our bags as soon as we can , a quick sanitising of the surfaces and unpack so when it's done the party can begin. 🎉🎉😁

[@bugwar5545]

"... a quick sanitising of the surfaces..." You must be the life of the party. Can't wait till you find out about the common areas. Or are you masking in the shower and wearing a latex body suit once out of your room?

[@pamborders4471]

Have you been spying on me again? I paid a lot of money for that latex suit!

[@bugwar5545]

@@pamborders4471 So how many gallons of sanitizer did you use? Or did you stay in your room the entire cruise?

[@Blackphoenix422]

I just laughed so hard reading these comments . You guys are hilarious 😂😂

[@faithwilley3171]

A funny thing happened to us on the return from a Caribbean trip. When we pulled into Florida, the temperature was a surprising 36 degrees. Since we gave our luggage away the night before, and only had shorts and tank tops with us, it was a difficult morning. There wasn't even a shop open to buy a sweater or light jacket! So, keep that lightweight cover with you the last night too.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Oh no! Lol that’s a good tip

[@k.s.brixey4469]

Oh good idea. That happened to us in Galveston. Luckily we opted to self assist our luggage.

[@charm8167]

I live in N.Ireland a wet/damp climate so a waterproof jacket, jumper, jeans and pair of waterproof trainers are in my backpack for travelling home. Florida weather is a very changeable from one minute to the next. A umbrella is another essential item.

[@sharonhinsley5335]

Print out a cruise ship deck plan to put on the wall by your door. I write AFT (back/rear) and FORWARD (front) on it, too.

[@eileenammendolea1776]

I love this idea! I can get lost so easily!

[@conspiracybeliever1749]

Wow, fabulous idea! I am directionally challenged, so this could help.

[@Blackphoenix422]

Directionally challenged 😂😂😂 I'm gonna use that and not give you any credit. Lol jk 😊

[@waynechason5855]

Where are you printing this from?

[@danielmarkov206]

Where should be printed?

[@arosenweig]

I always make it clear to everyone who does not live within a 2 hour drive of the embarkation port to arrive at least a day early to avoid the possibility of missing the ship.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yes 🙌

[@RBXChas]

Good call! I am 3 hours by car from Jacksonville, and even then I think I'd stay the night before. Two hours is definitely the limit, and unless hotels were prohibitively expensive, I'd consider it if only to be able to sleep in and have a slow morning on embarkation day.

[@heatherscaife-arkley8297]

For ft lauderdale what hotels do you recommend

[@arosenweig]

I recommend Embassy Suites since they have a location in Fort Lauderdale near the cruise terminal. I haven’t stayed at this particular Embassy Suites. However, I try to stay at one of their locations whenever I can since they offer complimentary cooked to order breakfast each morning.

[@heatherscaife-arkley8297]

Thank you. My mother has stage 4 cancer and we are treating her to a cruise rc. We wanted a nice hotel

[@CarboneCat]

I remember my first cruise on Celebrity Eclipse back in 2015 (yikes, almost 10 years ago). I was in awe with the size of this ship and its beauty when I first board in. Boarding involves a lot of walking so have confortable and broke in shoes.

[@BillNagle6900]

Great timing! We board for our first cruise in 68 hours! Your cruise planner and videos have been my favorites. Enchanted Princess, here we come.

[@LifeWellCruised]

One of my favorite ships!! Enjoy every minute & thanks for your feedback & purchase 😊

[@lightwarrior432]

How EXCITING!!! 😃👍🏽 ENJOY! I cannot WAIT for my First Cruise 🚢! Doing LOTS of research 😊

[@anitaclue9868]

Have an amazing trip!🏝️☀️🍹🛳️🌊🌅

[@cindyjackson4964]

We’ve been on many cruises and I still watch every video Illana does! She’s the best!

[@abbiem2314]

Same here ❤

[@artsywendy]

I do as much booking ahead of the cruise as I can. Book a spa treatment, specialty dining and excursions. The excursions are available for booking first followed by the spa and then the dining. First thing on board is I go pick up my key card, look for my room steward and introduce myself and ask for the beds to be separated into twins and ask for an extension cord for my CPAP. I drop off any hand luggage and go do an explore, do the muster room video and visit the location, find some lunch and beverage(s). I return to my room to check for luggage and unpack using packing cubes to keep my items organized on the journey and store my now empty luggage under the bed. I always have a roomie who isn’t family and we sort out beds, drawers and closet spaces. I find staying organized and tidy keeps the relationship purring along nicely.

[@jjellii1228]

You can arrange for the bed configuration before you board and request the CPAP extension cord and distilled water when you first make your reservation

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good routine - especially if the beds were not already configured the way you requested or need

[@Cruise-hair-why-care]

Always remember to put your phone in Airplane Mode to avoid large unwanted phone plan charges on your cruise. Ship WiFi works in airplane mode. Thank you Ilana!!

[@lightwarrior432]

Great reminder!! Thank you! 😊👍🏽

[@bethdavis6863]

Very important for first time cruisers to be aware of!! Also, wear a cheap watch that will not automatically update time so you won’t be late to the ship on port days. Your IPhone may change time to port time, and that can get you into real trouble!

[@debbied8525]

Thanks so much for this tip. Was wondering how to use the WiFi on my phone if it was in airplane mode. Read about people having $1,000 cell phone bills!

[@Cecey0000]

Very good advice 😊

[@cadmando18]

We took our first cruise last year for our 20th anniversary, and we watched so many of your videos. Anyone else reading this comment, Life Well Cruised made a good cruise into an amazing cruise!! I'm completely serious. Anyone thinking of taking their first cruise or even if you have been on a couple, these videos are worth so much!! MY TIP: If you are going to bring watches, or other valuables on the cruise, either keep them with you or make sure they are packed deep within your luggage. I got a watch stolen on my first cruise because I packed it in a carry-on back pack that I gave to the attendants with my luggage. Cheers!

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad my videos helped make your cruise even better. I appreciate you sharing your experiences

[@Reed-2big]

I have mobility issues, so unless there is a shore excursion we need to book onboard, we go to the buffet first. That gives me a better chance at getting a table I can get to! Pre being able to leave luggage in rooms, the buffet was where we could relax with it. However, we know that others need to eat so we don’t just sit there with the luggage, we often move to the loyalty lounge. Of course there is a muster station scavenger hunt to do somewhere in there, it’s a pain with luggage though! No, we can give up the bag with medical equipment, nor at least one personal bag/carry on. We have noticed that the larger ships now, aren’t able to clear the ship by even 11 am. I haven’t been on a cruise lately where we had an assigned table, I’d love to know if my cabin number matters.

[@Reed-2big]

We don’t often have the beds set right, or they so that they are difficult to get around. We always assure the room steward that at/by turn down service if they prefer! Please consider some of get sent to the naughty room because they can’t figure out what actually is in the suitcase. The most reasonable one was the plier type nail clippers they said they thought it was a Ute knife. I would have believed a leatherman more but it just mean we drug the luggage back to the room although I think we could have ask for it to be delivered. For power strips a while back we just had to have them check. Now we have a European plug so they don’t even worry with it.

[@amandareiche9083]

Never pack valuables, needed passports and reservation documentation anywhere but in a personal item that stays with you on the plane and embarking and disembarking the ship...

[@pjittner8504]

I keep my jewelry, makeup, medications, documentation, emergency stuff with me until I reach my cabin where jewelry, passport, and car keys go in the safe, meds & makeup in the bathroom, and the rest in one of the closets until I get my smaller, over the shoulder bag to carry around my water bottle and anything else I need. I also have a lanyard with me, so as soon as I get to my cabin and use the room key to get in, the card goes into my lanyard. Also nice to meet the cabin steward and let them know of anything I might need. I prepay tips and let them know, but anything extra I need, gets them an extra tip.

[@PupsMom]

I watch youtube videos showing tours of our ship and make a list of restaurants and locations on my note app on my phone. This way, we can refer to the list to decide where to eat until we are familiar with our favorite restaurants. We board early and check out the ship before it gets crowded. Unpack as soon as your cabin is ready, so you can then relax. If any of your clothes develope wrinkles, hang them on the back of the bathroom door when you shower, to steam them. I take a small spray bottle of Wrinkle Release, but haven't needed it. Book specialty dining before you board or right after you board, before your favorite time is booked up. Take a free tour of the spa when you board, as they usually offers deals. Most of the smaller ships don't have laundry machines, but they have dry cleaning. Usually half way through the cruise, they offer a reduced set price for a full laundry bag, instead of by the piece.

[@francesgill8621]

Don't trust phones. I have all my docs in hand for embarkation

[@Blackphoenix422]

I agree because now you can't have your ID on the phone it has to be in hand.

[@elizabethsnyder5074]

Great tip for ANY form of ticketed travel!

[@joelroach416]

I unpack absolutely as soon as possible. I feel like that is when the vacation truly begins.

[@notinterested6343]

We watch the muster drill while sitting and waiting to get on the ship. We unpack as soon as we get our luggage.

[@amybynum8962]

Always bring you a sweater or a blue Jean jacket it get cool

[@wpatrickw2012]

Tip the steward both at the beginning and end of the cruise in cash in addition to the auto-gratuity. Our steward really watched out for us. It seemed like our stateroom was cleaned and made up moments after we were out the door. Fantastic cruise experience.

[@FastEddy1959]

How much?

[@tightcherry]

A. Yes!! I cruised on icon in April and stayed in a interior plus cabin. I did not but any packages. The only extra things we spent on was room service one night and Izumi at the park. We had an amazing time! On symphony of the seas in March 2020 I booked an interior room and did not purchase any packages, only dinner at chops one night. Was one of the best cruises I went on!

[@paulamarth]

I agree with you the luggage tags are a life safer. Now on my last cruise on of mine broke but luckily our 4 bags were all together and they picked up the tag and brought it to us - so I love the hint about putting a paper inside with our name and cabin #! After 8 cruises we had a very noisy (fighting couple) next door to us and on the last night all heck broke lose and they were at it all night - so BRING EAR PLUGS in case of an emergency.

[@GlennBrockett]

Your carry on for embarkation day is not the same as your flight carry on. Feel free to move items around. Carry whatever you may need for the first night, a change of clothing and medications, most else can be checked with the porters. Rarely is luggage misplaced (wrong ship) or dropped in the harbor, but it happens. I have found that around 11 AM is a great arrival time. The ship has usually already disembarked most of the previous passengers already, by the time you have made it through the desks, it will be loading and your wait will be minimal. You can flex your arrival time a little. On Norwegian, I usually use "The Local" for a non-hectic lunch. The rooms are off limits until they finish the turnover, usually around 1 or 2, about the time we have boarded and had a leisurely lunch. Bring a something magnetic to put on your door. The doors all tend to look the same and a visual cue will really help for your first couple of days. I used a small Titanic model that I gave to the cabin steward at the end of the cruise.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great advice!

[@leahkarp29]

Titanic ?!

[@DB-zp9un]

Love that you talk cruises and how to cruise and stay away from almost all of the drama and other stuff. Thanks! Love your vids!

[@markweaver2188]

My one additional tip is to be sure to take it slow if possible to really enjoy the experience.

[@gatorguy7711]

Another thing that first time cruisers may enjoy is watching sail away for a ship that they may be sailing on in the near future. While we have cruised many times, we still enjoy watch the ships leave port, especially those we will be crusing aboard. Port Canaveral, Port Everglades (Ft Lauderdale) and Port Miami all have great webcams. Just check your ship's cruising schedule or port schedule to determine when your ship will be leaving from your departure port and the departure time. I think it is fun watching people having fun on sail away, especially if you are in a colder climate. This should get you even more excited about a future cruise,

[@lightwarrior432]

Great Tip! Thank you!!! 🚢 ON! 😊👍🏽😉

[@donbarron5349]

I enjoy sail away from my balcony with a cocktail!

[@LJLMETAL]

About having a passport, I recommend having both the book, and card. The card you keep on you. The book you keep in your bag.

[@PupsMom]

Keep in mind, even in a hot climate, the ac inside the ship is a bit chilly, so bring a sweater or light jacket.

[@happycruiser]

Keep small bills in a pocket where you can quickly get when tipping the porters at the ship. You don't want to be digging into your bag, it all happens so quick. Speak with your cabin steward and ask for things that you need. We also asked for double amount of towels, 2 newsletters, and we tell him (for evening turn down) we are usually out of our cabin at 530 returning after 10. Especially important if you leave for dinner later, lets say 730 or 8. The cabin steward can re-adjust his time to do your cabin after you leave.

[@amandagynn7010]

We are very fortunate to live less than 30 mins away from our cruise port - Norfolk, VA. We have a family member drop us off to avoid the hassle of finding parking or worrying about our car the whole trip.

[@cindyjackson4964]

I always unpack the first day! Having everything put away reduces my stress level and starts vacation mode!

[@BeefromSC]

I don’t eat breakfast or much before getting on the ship 1st day because after locating our Muster Drill station, we head to Guy’s Burger to eat, along with getting a slice of confetti cheese cake as our traditional embarkment meal 😋😋😋😋 I usually unpack by the first night, probably after the welcome show! A great place to store luggage is under the beds too! Thank you for all the updated embarkation day changes 🛳️🛳️

[@k.s.brixey4469]

We always eat our first lunch at the Central Park Cafe.

[@joanneh4803]

Totally agree with checking in on the app! Recently checked in for our next cruise and needed a photo of all our passports as well as security photos and it was so much easier having everything ready to go on my phone.

[@crazy4dariver]

When flying rarely do I have more than a backpack and a small suitcase. One cruise same deal BUT they took the case. I keep Meds, Cloths, ID ABSOLUTE Essentials in my back pack that will last 24hrs. During the cruise I made friends with head of security and asked why was suitcase taken? Apparently people try to smuggle all kinds of forbidden items on board. The backpack they checked boarding. Suitcases get scanned harder than TSA. I fully understand and respect it. Safety for all..not just entitled idiots

[@jillladd2756]

We are so looking forward to "Sail Away" for our upcoming cruise. Last year we cruised ( first time) to Alaska on the Royal Princess, and embarkation was delayed about 4 hours because of a customs issue.... so by the time everyone got on board, and we had a welcome cocktail, it was time for our dinner reservation in Crown Grill. We totally missed sail away. I would not make that mistake going forward though.... no specialty restaurants on the first night. These are excellent tips, as always ! We did everything you talked about on our first trip, and I have to say, without your advice, I honestly don't think our trip would have been as absolutely seamless as it was. We had literally NO CLUE how to do any of this, and I watched every one of your videos and I can't thank you enough for the help you provided. For anyone new.... just watch all of Ilana's videos.... it is a treasure chest of knowledge. We had THE best time because we were very well prepared and knew things to expect and what to do if something went a little wrong.... it turned out to be the most perfect trip. Next up, Sun Princess to the Caribbean, and I'm going through all of Ilana's new videos to prep for that. Thank you so much for all your wonderful advice and tips !!!

[@LifeWellCruised]

So exciting! I actually have one more Sun Princess video coming hopefully this weekend. Uggh Alaska can be a tough embarkation sometimes

[@JeffEnger]

Ilana My Wife and I are on the Island Princess celebrating our 50th anniversary We watched a lot of your videos for tips and tricks and need to thank you so much we are on the eighth day of our trip and having a wonderful time Thank you for making our trip a success Thanks Jeff and Linda

[@derekcallum4212]

#1. Read all the cruise company rules before you go and watch as many videos of your chosen cruise line. #2. Make sure your passport is up-to-date and not expiring soon. #3. Please, always get to your cruise port area 1 day before, just in case. You never know what can happen along the way. #4. Check for any major events happening in your cruise city. Example - Marathon route, could cause traffic backup to cruise port.🎉

[@lightwarrior432]

GREAT TIPS! Thank you!! 😊👍🏽🚢

[@bethdavis6863]

Beware Mardi Gras in Galveston! It will affect getting to your motel the night before sailing and debarkation day. Luckily, no blocked off roads on embarkation day yet!

[@jeannedeveau3711]

This wasnt a cruise but I made plans to fly to Loiluisville, KY and unbeknownst to me it was during the Kentucky Derby! I wondered why there were red roses all through the airport.

[@kmcbride2988]

Place an extra copy of the luggage tag in your check luggage and carry on. But an added help to staff also place a tag next to your cruise tag…Checked luggage piece 1 of 2, ..checked luggage piece 2 of 2

[@JeanneSwank]

Another thing you want to remember when you go to the maître d’ if you have allergies or you need kosher food or any other type of food, go to the meter D and make sure as soon as you get on the ship that they know of any allergies that you have or any food requirements that you have because then they will make note of itand when you go to the main dining room or any specialty restaurant, they will have it written down and they look at your pass as you go into the restaurant and it’ll come up that’ll say allergy to such as such

[@LifeWellCruised]

So true! Thanks for mentioning

[@sallyestes7077]

Thanks for your tips! You spoke of taking a jacket for chilly/windy walks on the deck. I take a jacket and wear most of the time indoors because of the Air Conditioning. The AC is set much cooler than I have at home. Getting ready for a relocation cruise in September.

[@kathyhorstman7909]

On embarkation day, I like to establish friendly relations with my cabin steward--- introduce myself, find out his or her name, maybe pass along a preliminary tip for how nicely he's prepared the room. If I have any special requests (like for a feather pillow), this is a good time to make them. I make sure to let the steward know I don't expect it to appear right away, but only after he's done with his regular room prep. Also, be sure to check the paperwork left on the desk. You might find a card informing you of your assigned dining time, and there may be vouchers for discounts at the specialty restaurants.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Very good ideas

[@FastEddy1959]

How much to tip on sail-away?

[@justjessy0115]

How much do you tip on the 1st day? Do you tip everyday? How much? And how much do you tip on last day?

[@laurenschenck5355]

Loving this new series cruising 101! Great idea! 💙💙💐🩵🛳️🛳️💐💙💛💛💙🩵❤️❤️🌈🌸🌸💖💖🌷🩷🧡🧡❣️🌻💘🌸🌈🛳️🛳️🛳️🩵💖❤️🩵🩵💐💛💙🌸💚🌈🌈💖💖🤎🌷🩷

[@elizabethlangheim7214]

Last cruise was the first time I went to the dining room instead of the buffet on embarkation day. I definitely suggest the dining room. It’s a much more relaxed atmosphere.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Totally agree!

[@janefogel8390]

We haven't been on a cruise for 7 years, so this was a helpful video. We always eat first, then explore the ship. Thanks for the tips!

[@latoyajoslyn8116]

My friend is going on her first cruise next month. Your information detailed and perfect. I'm sharing this video with her so she doesn't get caught off guard. Thank you!!

[@judithrodriguez7765]

Thank you so much for this video my last cruise was about 10 years ago. God willing will be traveling with my daughter,her husband, and my 2 grandsons 2 and 3 years of age. Very excited.

[@Rosediamond270]

Have a great time!😊

[@alexanderdeburdegala4609]

I hope you don't mind me saying, you're mom energy is really helping calm my anxiety with my friend cruise. thank you.

[@KathyCollier-r1q]

I always like to take a few minutes to unpack as soon as bags are delivered. This gets it out of the way and I feel a little better organized for the rest of my vacation!

[@freeman_fundamentals]

My fiancé & I got engaged on 4/20, we booked a honeymoon 10night RC for $2,400, we booked excursions & packages for $1,200. While this will be my 6th cruise this is the first one I’ve planned out on my own (she is not the best itinerary making person) An hour after booking I’ve spent probably 3hours a day digesting your content:)

[@linda319]

California Linda shares excellent vlog. Many who view your videos may be first-time cruisers or cruisers who have not cruised for many years. Outstanding comments.

[@keishalashon3863]

We actually skip the sail away party because we always book the Steakhouse on the 1st night. After we eat lunch and explore the ship, we unpack and get ready for the Steakhouse.

[@PatsyMellen]

Is it by chance cheaper the first day?

[@keishalashon3863]

@PatsyMellen It's just our tradition since we started cruising.

[@CoralEuphoria]

I'm going on my first cruise in August to Alaska. Super excited! Your vids have been very helpful!

[@deniseduckworth9089]

Me too! So excited!

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad! Very exciting 🛳️🎉

[@HollyNorris-r8j]

Often the hotel near the cruise port only shuttles once to the port. Twice in the past, we were there an hour or more before our check in time. We told one of the many helpful folks at the port (RC) of our situation and they told us to go in anyway. It seems that unless the lines are long, the Royal Carib people were flexible. Nice to know we didnt have that super long wait!

[@k.s.brixey4469]

I learned on my first cruise arrival time doesn't matter. Showed up early next time and practically walked right onto the ship.

[@christineE9301]

We also go to the port early, preferably by 10:00 am. That way, we never have to fight crowds getting through security. We may have to wait before boarding the ship, but usually get a chair while waiting.

[@jkschnik6952]

I bought those luggage tags and they are great! We used them when we flying several times already and we haven't cruised yet. Thanks for recommending them!

[@LindaBuchele]

Loving this new series Ilana. Not new to cruising, but things change on the daily.

[@jcshaves]

Lots of good information here. Glad you mentioned airplane mode. Also if you go into port and turn it off make sure before you sail away to turn back into airplane mode again. Also well before tour cruise make sure your phone is setup for WiFi calling if you plan on using the ship’s WiFi to be able to make phone calls. Enjoy your cruise.

[@rhondalyn100]

Leaving for my very first cruise (Virgin Voyages) in 22 days!! Thanks so much for these great tips...I am passing this along to my friend/ship mate. 🙂

[@cherylosburn8036]

What frustrates me is complainers! You’re on vacation!!! Relax Enjoy

[@heatheralisa8658]

lol try living with one 😂

[@philfreer1629]

Well, there you go complaining again...😁

[@judithrodriguez7765]

@@cherylosburn8036 yep complainers are the worse and for some reason or another they are always in front of me so get the hear it as well.

[@kellyannhahn4201]

I agree your sopose to have fun on a cruise 😊

[@wetacious]

😂​@@judithrodriguez7765

[@RobertaLanglais]

We have been on many cruises but your tips are extremely helpful . Thank you . We typically will unpack as soon as luggage arrives .

[@k.s.brixey4469]

I have never been turned away for arrival early. We try to arrive around 11am. Bring an easy to roll around carryon for your electronics, swimsuit, and dinner clothes while you wait on your luggage. Also, make it easy to carry around while you go eat lunch and wait on your stateroom.

[@daleniehaus4309]

Great video! I watched it even though we consider ourselves veteran cruisers - always think of something new. As for when we unpack? Our last cruise in January 2024 we splurged on Oceania and booked a Penthouse Suite, which comes with a butler. We found on Cruise Critic many commented that the butler will unpack for you! When he introduced himself to us, I asked about that and he said "of course, I would be happy to do that". Made things very nice on embarkation day!

[@michaelschulteis7770]

Well done video for the first timer or those of us who don’t cruise very often and need a refresher.

[@josereyes3108]

Cruising to Alaska in September 2024! I can’t wait, it’s my first time visiting Vancouver, first time visiting Alaska, and it’s also my first cruise ever! Thanks for all the great tips! I’ve been watching and liking your videos since last year when I booked my cruise ✌🏾

[@beckymorehead6482]

We are headed there in June. Do you know if the pools are heated?

[@judem72]

We are cruising to Alaska end of August. First time cruising in 20 years.

[@josereyes3108]

@@beckymorehead6482 I’m sure they are. Pack your bathing suits, swimsuits, and swimming shorts

[@josereyes3108]

@@judem72 Nice! Which cruise line did you choose? Which ports are you visiting?

[@BethRignell]

QUESTION FOR CRUISING 101: a short video on dining would be great. Like can you bring your buffet meal to your room and eat on your balcony? Can you walk around to other areas with drinks in hand or food in hand? When ordering dinner how do you know what to order for example can you order a starter, an entre' and something from the grill and sides? At main dining if you have a show and want your dinner can you ask for it to go or just forgo dinner?

[@martinlund7790]

To the first 2 questions yes

[@rondayoung2575]

If I want to eat on my balcony I always bring a small tote and bento box add my meal and go back to my room and eat on my balcony.

[@Blackphoenix422]

For carnival the same food that is on your dinner menu is on the buffet as well. Excluding salmon, lobster or steak.. They have a different menu every night, but if you want something different you can ask. Carnival policy is you get an appetizer, up to two free entrees and a couple desserts.

[@meddyven]

Ilana, after the embarkation pomp and circumstance, I head to the area surrounding guest services, and look for a daily planner. As I go to do my e muster, and get some lunch, I peruse the activities ahead. There might be a dance lesson to sign up for, activities like that, that I want to get signed up for, before sll the spots are taken. If I am meeting up with any Facebook members, that is lso a god time to get acquainted as well. ALSO....life Well Cruised is less than 2k subscribers away from eclipsing 300K. I thInk that is the reason you are super excited. Let me be the first to say CONGRATULATIONS!!!

[@deepshotone]

Bravo Allana! This is one your best videos! My embarkation day process is first the muster drill. Then to the main dining room to check out my table assignment. Then confirm my specialty dining reservations, then head to my cabin and change clothes, then to the lido deck for some snacks and drinks and enjoy the sail away party. We were on carnival mardi gras 3 weeks ago and had a great time. 17 cruises now complete.....

[@LifeWellCruised]

Sounds like a great plan! That ship is on my list btw 😎

[@donnabush7938]

Thank you so much for this new series! It’s been over 20 years since my only cruise, so every tip I can get is very helpful. I have a couple of questions: 1. How do you know when your room is ready? 2. About how much is the embarkation day photo, and is that charged to your cruise card? 3. Is there a way to find out what types of soda are available on the ship? 4. When reserving a hotel room for the night before my cruise, what questions should I ask regarding shuttles and parking? Thanks for all the great content you provide❣️❣️❣️

[@TSutro]

Thank you for your VERY informative videos. You mentioned in one of your videos that you always have on hand, about $20.00 in $1.00 bills to use at tips. I have been using US $2.00 bills and they always get comments. They are just different and people remember them. We are headed on an Alaska cruise in 5 days so I need to restock. Hopefully the bank will have them.

[@hotrodchick3210]

We do the same! We get weird looks sometimes and assure people that it’s real currency.😊

[@k.s.brixey4469]

What a fun idea!

[@druegillis1744]

We have been doing the $2 bill tips for a while and if you go somewhere an a frequent basis, the servers remember you, especially if you tip 20% or more. The only downside is that to “order” the $2 bills from our credit union is the minimum amount is 1,000 bills or $2,000 worth. People will do a double take when you put them down as a tip. Cabin stewards keep them as a good luck charm.

[@eileenammendolea1776]

This was a great video full of really important information. Thanks so much!

[@tnthomas1954]

Getting ready for our first cruise. I’ve seen quite a few videos regarding that, and this is one of the best. Thanks.

[@glendalaforce9454]

After a few cruises, I started using off port parking. It's much easier and cheaper.

[@nancystanley8828]

Leave the large purse and unnecessary extra store, gas, library cards at home. A travel backpack with a wallet you can put in the cabin's safe is good. A lanyard and holder with clear front to scan the ship card and zipper compartment for credit cards and small amount of cash you can wear off the ship under clothes for safety. As Americans, we carry our passport card in that and leave our actual passport in the safe when ashore, just in case.

[@jenniferyoung6818]

I just bought the passport holder that you have listed. My biggest fear is losing my passport. I’ll feel better having it in this holder along with my boarding passes. So many great tips In this video. We leave for our cruise in 2 weeks (cruise is in 16 days) and I am trying to plan everything out so nothing is forgotten. Your videos have been a HUGE help

[@dawnl4376]

I would be the first person on the ship if I could. 😂 I have used many of your tips over the past couple of years. Hope to run into you one of these days so I can thank you and tell you in person, how helpful you have been and how much I enjoy your videos. We are mostly Celebrity cruisers. Have 3 booked for next year. 🎉. Just LOVE it. 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yay! Hopefully we’ll get a chance to meet on a cruise one day 🇨🇦

[@deborataglieri5006]

My luggage has been misdirected and thanks to air tags, I was able to locate it. Whoever delivered is transposed the numbers in their head and it was sitting outside another room. I unpack as soon as it shows up, but i use packing cubes and I leave them at the bottom of the closet. At the end of the day, I pack those clothes into a cube and when the cube is filled I drop it into the suitcase. No last minute packing. I put empty hangers on the closet floor so they don't clang together and keep me awake at night, before I leave the ship I put them back up.

[@lightwarrior432]

Great Tips ! Thank You!

[@lindarobinson2104]

I don't give my debit or credit card for onboard purchases. I buy gift cards (available at various grocery stores and AARP for discounted digital gc). This way I control spending. If I find I'm running low on funds, I add cash. If I have credit I'm not going to use, I add that to gratuities.

[@brokenheartmender]

this is a great tip! plus its safer than having your cc or debit card floating around!

[@justjessy0115]

So if everything goes on your sea pass card, you just pay it on the last day with a gift card you purchased at a local store? How do you know how much your gonna need on the cards? I'm going on my 1st cruise in Dec & have no ideas what to do.

[@lindarobinson2104]

@justjessy0115 The seapass card is like your debit card. If you attach your regular debit card, whatever you spend onboard comes out of your bank account, like if you're at home and you buy gas with your debit card. If you attach your credit card, you are charging every onboard purchase to your credit card. With gift cards, you buy those in advance, and at check-in, you tell them you're using gift cards instead of debit or credit. I base my gift card purchases on how much I think we're going to spend, which is also based on our last cruise spending. No matter what payment form you use, you can't accurately predict how much you'll spend. If I find out I'm going to be short, I add cash (I always have about $200 for thus purpose. If I find that I have extra money at the end of our cruise, I apply it to gratuities.

[@lindarobinson2104]

@justjessy0115 Keep, I'm mind that you have to use debut, credit or gift cards. You can't set up your onboard account without one of these. People like credit cards because they don't worry about spending. Buy either way, the cruise line will place a hold on your card for a set number of days after the cruise. Another reason why I don't give the debit or credit cards But I do carry them.

[@heideleskun1163]

I checked in all of our "kids" by getting the passport info that they have, if they didn't I just had them send me their state ID. So yes, I agree you can check in everyone in your party if they provide you the info and you are connected in the "booking companions" Copies of luggage tags IN your bags, not just checked but carry on if someone accidentally grabs your bag my mistake is perfect to put in the bag instead of hand writing a note. Great reminders.

[@marks6325]

One experience we had with online check in was there's a possibility while your doing a check in for one person, that time slot may be filled by the time you get to another. We checked in around 1230 in the morning. So my time was 1030 and my wifes was 11.

[@marianjeffrey8684]

Flying out tomorrow from Australia to Vancouver for our first cruise. Boarding on Sunday very excited. Brilliant information, thanks.

[@monicadepoy5157]

Spoiler alert. The Vancouver boarding is a mess! Be patient and know that another debarkation ports run much smoother.

[@LifeWellCruised]

So exciting! Have an amazing cruise & enjoy Vancouver. It’s an incredible city! Boarding is a bit challenging as you’ll be going through US customs & security (like an airport). It may take about an hour or a bit more, but eat a good breakfast before you go and “pack your patience” as they say 😉😂

[@lightwarrior432]

So excited for you! ENJOY!! 😊🚢🛟⚓️ 🍾🥂🌅

[@genesnyder2985]

We always print extra tags and always put one inside each bag in case the outside tag falls off

[@TheresaHuerta]

I’m going on my first cruise in September I’m going by myself and I’m so scared but very excited… I watch all of your videos some times I’ll watch them 2 or 3 times just to be sure I didn’t miss anything..,

[@MistyLoveMistral]

I hope you enjoy it! I'm going on my first in December with my daughter. I'm watching videos too 😊

[@AngelaMcLaren-i7r]

I'm going on my 1st in March '25, we will all be fine, just enjoy, not doubt we've all earnt it.🙂

[@amandaregis313]

I've been binging on your channel and others for over 100 days, and we still have 51 more to go. I feel like the MS Volendam will be much easier to get around, too, after all the tour videos. As for boarding passes, I believe we fall into that 15-day range but have long since filled out the check-in and printed the luggage tags. I will definitely print an extra set for inside the luggage now. I'm not usually a dress gal, but hubby's been getting me to try out different styles, so between our first night celebrating our 39th anniversary at the Pinnacle Grill, dressy nights and dining in the MDR, I'll be happy to dress up a bit. It's been ages since I've had a chance to (even the military functions dried up long before his retirement about 8 years ago). He even found a matching Hawaiian shirt and dress combo that would be great fun on Embarkation Day. We've got the Have it All package and Unlimited Laundry. Our travel day will be upon us in no time at all, between having the grandsons over, a yard sale, our younger son up from Toronto, a concert in Huntsville, and all the gardening. Thank you, merci, for all the guidance, we definitely needed it.